multivalent
Học thuậtThân thiện
A single multivalent chromosome complex is clearly visible under the microscope.
Definition
- Adjective:
- Having many values, meanings, or appeals: Describes something that can be interpreted in multiple ways or holds several different significances or attractions.
- Having more than one valence, or having a valence of 3 or higher: In chemistry, describes an atom or ion with the capacity to form multiple chemical bonds.
- Used of the association of three or more homologous chromosomes during the first division of meiosis: In genetics, describes the state where multiple chromosomes pair together.
Usage Examples
- Adjective (Multiple Meanings):
- The film's ending was deliberately multivalent, allowing for various interpretations.
- Her poetry is rich and multivalent, speaking to readers on many levels.
- Adjective (Chemistry):
- A multivalent ion, like phosphate (PO₄³⁻), can form salts with several cations.
- The vaccine was designed using a multivalent antigen to target multiple virus strains.
- Adjective (Genetics):
- Multivalent associations are observed in polyploid organisms during meiosis.
Advanced Usage
- In Literary/Cultural Analysis: Often used to describe complex works of art, symbols, or narratives that resist a single, fixed interpretation.
- The critic praised the novel's multivalent symbolism, which enriched every reading.
- In Medicine/Vaccinology: Describes vaccines effective against several strains or types of a pathogen.
- The new multivalent flu vaccine offers broader protection than last year's formula.
Variants and Related Words
- Multivalence (n): The quality or state of being multivalent.
- The multivalence of the ancient myth allows it to remain relevant.
- Polyvalent (adj): Often used synonymously, especially in scientific contexts like chemistry and immunology.
- A polyvalent antivenom can neutralize toxins from several snake species.
Synonyms
- Ambiguous: Open to more than one interpretation.
- Polysemous: Having multiple meanings (used specifically for words or signs).
- Polyvalent: Having multiple valences or uses (common in scientific contexts).
Antonyms
- Univalent: Having a valence of one; single.
- Monovalent: Having a valence of one (in chemistry); or having a single meaning or use.
- Unequivocal: Leaving no doubt; unambiguous.
A single multivalent chromosome complex is clearly visible under the microscope.
Adjective
- having many values, meanings, or appeals
- subtle, multivalent allegory
- having more than one valence, or having a valence of 3 or higher
- used of the association of three or more homologous chromosomes during the first division of meiosis